The Office for Black Catholics presents their first Black Catholic Leadership Awards Banquet. The purpose of this event is to recognize the contributions of persons who have provided strong and effective leadership and service in the Black Catholic Community. Funds raised for this event are given in the form of scholarships to assist Black Catholic Youth in continuing their Catholic Education.

The Acacia Award recognizes an individual for their years of service, support and fidelity to the Black Catholic Community. The Acacia Award is taken from the Acacia Tree which is native to Africa. It is mentioned in the Bible in the book of Exodus and Isaiah. The wood of the tree was used to build the Ark of the Covenant. It is known for providing protection, food and shelter in many African societies because of its resilience to the environmental condition.

The Saint Katharine Drexel Award recognizes an adult individual who exhibits a high level of commitment to his/her faith in the Black Catholic Community. The individual demonstrates leadership in serving the Black Catholic Community. They dedicate their time and talents to bring an awareness of the presence of Christ in their parish and community.

The Diocese of Richmond’s Office of Social Ministries is excited to bring back Shine: Social Ministry Summit, 2017. This is a two-day event that invites ​you ​to ​enter ​more ​deeply ​into ​the ​heart ​of ​the ​Gospel by engaging in works of mercy while ​serving ​the ​Lord ​and ​the ​’least ​of ​His ​brethren.’ We extend an invitation to all parishioners who are interested in the social mission of the Church. Some keynote speakers include Bob Lesnefsky (founder of Dirty Vagabond Ministries), the Missionaries of the Poor from Jamaica, and Fr. Michael Renninger, pastor of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Richmond.